Computers by Sinclair Research Ltd

Sinclair Research Ltd traces its roots back to 1973, when Sir Clive Sinclair acquired a dormant company, Ablesdeal Ltd. Renamed Sinclair Instruments in 1975, the company initially focused on electronic calculators and miniature television sets. In 1977, it became Science of Cambridge, launching the MK14 — an affordable kit computer that hinted at bigger ambitions. By 1979, it transitioned again to Sinclair Computers Ltd, and finally, in 1981, it was rebranded as Sinclair Research Ltd.

Under this final name, Sinclair would leave an indelible mark on home computing with the ZX80, ZX81, and the wildly popular ZX Spectrum. These low-cost, compact computers democratized technology in the UK and beyond. Later innovations like the Sinclair QL and the C5 electric vehicle met with mixed success, and in 1986, Sinclair’s computer division was sold to Amstrad. Despite these ups and downs, Sinclair Research's influence on affordable computing and British tech culture remains legendary.

People associated with Sinclair Research Ltd

Alan Miles Marketing 1980s-1986

Bruce Gordon Hardware Designer, Hardware Engineer 1980s-1986

Jim Westwood Engineer, Hardware Engineer 1970s-1986

Sir Clive Sinclair Founder 1972-2021 (his death)

Richard Altwasser Hardware Engineer 1980-1982

Chris Curry Engineer, Marketing 1966-1978

Rick Dickinson Industrial Designer 1979-1986

Steve Vickers Software Developer 1980-1982